Annual Columbus Office Tenant Report | 2025

Written by: Collin Fitzgerald & Stephanie Morris

Colliers | Columbus is excited to present the 6th edition of this exclusive report!

The Columbus office market is evolving with new opportunities and shifting dynamics. As more companies bring employees back to the office, whether through mandates or incentives, Columbus is experiencing a revitalization of office spaces, marked by evolving tenant demands and new challenges. Businesses are adapting to these changes by reimagining workspaces and incorporating amenities that cater to employees’ changing needs, both within their buildings and in nearby areas. This report explores trends in demand, the influence of hybrid work models and new opportunities for occupiers and investors. It provides insights into workplace trends, tenant behavior case studies, migration patterns, industry leader perspectives and forecasts for Columbus office space in 2025. 

Columbus is poised for sustained growth as we build vertical communities. The future of a successful workplace lies in seamlessly integrated environments that harmonize office, retail, and outdoor spaces.

-Julie Simono, Executive Vice President

The return-to-office debate remains a focal point, with major corporations like Amazon, JP Morgan, AEP and Wendy’s mandating full-time office attendance while others, like Spotify and Airbnb, reinforce remote-first policies. In Columbus, tenant demand will grow in 2025 as more firms introduce stricter in-office policies. The 2024 VTS Global Workplace Report found that 59% of companies are currently mandating more in-office time, with 55% planning to further increase attendance.

The future of work will be more tech-driven. From smart building automation to data-driven space management, organizations will increasingly rely on workplace intelligence tools to drive efficiency in the modern workplace. This evolving landscape has also led to a rise in demand for move-in-ready spaces. Many companies that have downsized are now seeking more space, driving a reduction in available sublease inventory.

Meanwhile, the push for office conversions is expected to reduce vacancies, particularly as landlords explore repositioning assets to meet housing or community demands.

Investment activity remains subdued, with buyers seeking discounts and sellers hesitating to accept major losses. By 2025, lease terms and space requirements are expected to stabilize, with companies prioritizing workplace configurations that align with evolving employee preferences, sustainability initiatives and technology-driven efficiencies.

As the return-to-office wave gains momentum, Columbus stands at the crossroads of resilience and opportunity. With its balanced market dynamics, growing business ecosystem and competitive edge over other cities, Columbus is not just keeping pace—it’s setting the stage for a revitalized office sector in 2025 and beyond.

-Collin Fitzgerald, Research Manager

View the 2025 Foresight Report